Dareu Master vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Master and Cherry MX Red both present compelling options for users seeking a linear switch. The Dareu Master's linear switch, known as the Master, offers a medium weight that strikes a balance between responsive feedback and smooth operation. With a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness, it falls under the categories of clacky, mild, polished. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red is a tried-and-true favorite, known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. Categorized as thocky, low-pitched, textured, the MX Red offers a different typing experience compared to the Master. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Master and Cherry MX Red switches both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The POM top housing of the Master creates a deep and muted sound that is unique and pleasing to the user. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the MX Red also produces a deep and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. While both top housings result in a similar sound profile, the materials used are different, with POM being specific to the Master and nylon being a classic material used in switches like the MX Red.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Dareu Master and Cherry MX Red switches utilize POM for the Master and nylon for the MX Red. The POM bottom housing of the Master contributes to its deep and muted sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the MX Red also enhances the fuller sound experience. The softer nature of nylon allows for a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics, similar to the effects of POM. While the bottom housings of both switches are different materials, they both play a role in impacting the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound and feel of a switch, it's important to note that each material brings its unique qualities to the experience. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when the key is released. In the case of the Dareu Master and Cherry MX Red switches, the POM and nylon materials used in both top and bottom housings contribute to their respective sound profiles and overall typing experience, with slight variations in the depth and muting of the sound.
Weight
The Dareu Master linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out force for both switches is unknown, so it is difficult to determine which one is heavier in terms of pressing all the way down. Weight is a significant factor to consider when choosing a switch, as those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for these switches for longer typing or gaming sessions. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, it may be better to explore options with heavier forces. Ultimately, while the actuation force may be the same for both switches, the bottom out force may vary and impact the overall typing experience for users.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Cherry MX Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Dareu Master switch offers a shorter travel distance compared to the Cherry MX Red switch. This means that the Dareu Master switch may provide a faster response time, which can be beneficial for gamers looking for quick keystrokes. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red switch with a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired. Both switches have unique characteristics that cater to different needs, so selecting the appropriate one will result in a satisfying typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Dareu Master linear switch offers a clacky sound, providing a sharp and snappy noise that is crisp and bright. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch offers a thocky sound with a deep and satisfying tone, along with a low-pitched bass-heavy quality. Both switches have distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Master being more classic and clacky, while the MX Red offers a deeper and more robust auditory experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Master linear switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. The switch is smooth and refined, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is described as textured, indicating noticeable friction when pressed. Some users prefer this subtle texture, while others prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. This difference in feel caters to different user preferences, with the Master being more polished and smooth, while the MX Red offers a slightly more tactile experience.
Overall, the Dareu Master linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Master provides a classic clacky sound and a polished feel, while the MX Red offers a deep and thocky sound with a textured feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to get a typing experience that best suits their needs. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience, ensuring that users will get satisfying results regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a medium weight with a clacky sound and exceptional smoothness, the Dareu Master switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel with a thocky, low-pitched sound and a textured key feel, then the Cherry MX Red switch might be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and enjoy a satisfying typing experience on your mechanical keyboard.
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